What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write The Deadly Stingaree?
The original manuscript arrived at my front door several years ago with an audible thump. There was no return address, only my name printed in large block letters—COREY LYNN FAYMAN—and, as I had not immediately answered the door, I missed the opportunity to see who had put it there. I brought the envelope inside, placed it on the kitchen table, and opened it carefully. The contents left me both amazed and dumbfounded. Was this remarkable tale fact, fiction, or some devious combination of both? I suspect the latter, but some part of me wishes it were all true.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of The Deadly Stingaree, what would they be?
I Won’t Back Down at The House of the Rising Sun
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
Mystery, Crime Fiction, Historical Fiction, Popular Science. I’ve written all of these except the last one.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
John & Paul: A Love Story in Songs, On Fire and Under Water: A Climate Change Crime Fiction Anthology, All Tomorrow’s Parties, Drive: A Novel, and Cooler than Cool: The Life and Work of Elmore Leonard.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
A scene where my 14-year-old protagonist escapes from his captors by sneaking through the maze of “The Cribs,” receiving timely and creative assistance from the fallen women who ply their trade in the lawless and debauched Stingaree district of downtown San Diego in 1891.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
My writing habits are incredibly boring. Early morning, 1 cup of coffee, start writing. In my office. The dullness of it probably helps.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
“Crime is common. Logic is rare.” (from Sherlock Holmes)
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That a small group of outcasts working together can defeat larger forces of ignorance and greed. And have more fun doing it.
Corey Lynn Fayman is the author of the new book The Deadly Stingaree
Connect with Corey Lynn Fayman
Author Site
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